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Statements on Mirror Lake tragedy

Hala.jpg

Epifluorescence microscope image of Halanaerobium bacteria cells -- one of the bacteria species which Ohio State researchers and their partners have discovered thriving in hydraulic fracturing wells. Image by Michael Wilkins, courtesy of The Ohio State University.

Cross-section of the hydraulic fracturing process. Image by Michael Wilkins, courtesy of The Ohio State University.

Cross-section of the hydraulic fracturing process. Image by Michael Wilkins, courtesy of The Ohio State University.

Pressure_cell.jpg

Titanium cell used to incubate bacteria under high pressures and temperatures. Inset shows bacteria cells growing in a glass vial taken from inside. Photo by Michael Wilkins, courtesy of The Ohio State University.

Hala.jpg

Epifluorescence microscope image of Halanaerobium bacteria cells -- one of the bacteria species which Ohio State researchers and their partners have discovered thriving in hydraulic fracturing wells. Image by Michael Wilkins, courtesy of The Ohio State University.

Cross-section of the hydraulic fracturing process. Image by Michael Wilkins, courtesy of The Ohio State University.

Cross-section of the hydraulic fracturing process. Image by Michael Wilkins, courtesy of The Ohio State University.

Pressure_cell.jpg

Titanium cell used to incubate bacteria under high pressures and temperatures. Inset shows bacteria cells growing in a glass vial taken from inside. Photo by Michael Wilkins, courtesy of The Ohio State University.

Statement from Ohio State University President Michael V. Drake

“We are heartbroken over this horrible tragedy. We have identified the young man as Austin Singletary, a third-year student from Dayton, Ohio. I know that the thoughts and prayers of all of us are with his family and loved ones. During this difficult time, counseling services will be made available throughout the holiday weekend for those who seek support,” said President Michael V. Drake.

Statement from The Ohio State University

In spite of significant efforts taken to make this event a safer one, this tragedy has occurred. We must come together and acknowledge that while this is a student-led tradition that has been passed down through the years, we cannot risk another tragedy. University leadership strongly agrees that we will work with our campus community to end this annual event.